When the long, balmy nights of summer slowly turn dark and tepid, there’s no denying that ‘winter is coming’. Whether this shift in temperature has you running to the closest shop to buy out all their sweaters, or settling into a Ugg-filled hibernation, preparation is key.

Although it would be a dream to have an entirely separate summer and winter wardrobe, it simply isn’t realistic for everyone. But this doesn’t mean that we can’t be smart about how we coordinate this transition. Whether you can afford to upgrade your winter wardrobe with a few new staple pieces, or are working with a tight budget, we’ve got you covered. So, how can you make the most of your summer wardrobe when all you want to do is hide under a pile of sweaters?

Go through your entire wardrobe

First thing’s first, pull out everything from your wardrobe and take stock of what you do and don’t have. Often, we get into a style rut towards the end of each season, where we wear the same outfit over and over. Whether it be out of sheer boredom, or because we have forgotten what clothes we own, it’s always a good idea to reacquaint yourself with your forgotten pieces at the end of each season.

This is also a great opportunity to see if any of your summer clothes, or previously stored winter clothes, require cleaning or repairs. Not only will repairing them save you time in the long run, it will also ensure that your winter clothing is ready to be worn once those winter nights settle in.

Make a shopping list

If you noticed any clear gaps in either your summer or winter wardrobe, write a shopping list for future reference. So, instead of mindlessly browsing through Zara or H&M, you’ll have a list of items that you do and don’t need. If you own 10 black t-shirts, for instance, you should place black t-shirts on a ‘no-buy list’. Sure, having multiples of your favourite wardrobe staple is great, but opting to buy them over the items you really need to enhance those staples is where it crosses the line.

So, what should you have in your winter wardrobe?

1. A classic winter coat – We suggest a lighter, waterproof option, a black woollen style, and a lighter-coloured trench coat.
2. Good quality knits – We suggest buying one knit (like an economical, woollen piece from Uniqlo) in multiple colours to mix-and-match.
3. Cold winter accessories – Scarves, beanies, warm socks, and depending on where you live, gloves.
4. Leather boots – Whether you prefer heavy-weighted boots like Doc Martens, or lighter options like a classic brogue or Chelsea boot, be sure to waterproof them.
5. Thicker jeans – If you rely on shorts in summer, make sure that your jeans are all in good shape and still fit perfectly.

If you need to replace one of your winter staples, be sure to set a realistic budget and research it before buying. Winter clothing is more expensive than summer clothes, so you want to make sure you are investing in the right piece for your lifestyle and budget.

Layer, layer, layer

With the air-conditioner blasting warm air into the office from 9 to 5, you need to make sure that you can adjust any winter outfit into an office appropriate look, without spending the day sweating through your button-down. This is where your summer wardrobe, and a bit of clever layering, will come in handy.

Start with one of your regular button-downs (long or short sleeve, either is fine depending on your office dress code), add a basic sweater over the top, keeping the collar exposed. Layer over your blazer and, if you really feel the cold, a warm woollen coat over the top. Buttoned cardigans or vests are also a great option for men in the workplace, as they can be buttoned up to keep your chest warm outside, but can be easily changed inside without the need for removing an entire item of clothing.

Change up your shoe (and sock) game

Once the mercury drops to below 15 degrees, no toes want to be exposed in a pair of thongs, regardless of how easy they are to slip on. And no pair of socks are ever going to make wearing socks with sandals acceptable. For men, your winter shoe options are endless. From suede brogues, to adding a pair of socks to your boat shoes, or a classic Chelsea boot, winter shoes always dress up an otherwise safe outfit.

Any closed-toe shoe you wear in summer can easily be transitioned into winter by adding the right pair of socks. In summer, we use socks mainly for keeping our feet sweat-free, while also preventing our almost sweat-free feet from rubbing against the leather lining. In winter, however, we want our socks to retain the heat that we wish to remove in summer. So, instead of wearing your regular socks, opt for a pair of thin, woollen socks. Natural fibres like wool allow your feet to breathe, while also keeping them nice and toasty.

What to put in storage

As much as we want to transition all our summer clothes into our winter wardrobe, there are some pieces that are better left in one season. Just as we don’t reuse our heavy-duty coats in summer, shorts shouldn’t be made to work for the cooler climate. But what else should be put away for next season?

Whether it’s because the cold weather doesn’t make us want to don brightly coloured shirts, or that darker shades are easier to layer under our black coats, most people tend to opt for darker colours once the mercury drops. Certain t-shirts and pants should also be placed to the side as we prepare ourselves for winter, namely Hawaiian-themed shirts (don’t deny that you have one!), board shorts, and lightweight chinos. All are great in summer (or if you are escaping the winter and flying to Hawaii), but you should focus your attention on curating a winter wardrobe that, although it contains summer items, is geared towards your winter lifestyle.

For more tips on transitioning your summer clothes into winter, or winter outfit inspiration, be sure to follow our favourite fashion bloggers.